There are currently 400 firefighters assigned to this fire, including 30 engines, 6 crews, 5 dozers, 8 helicopters, 7 air tankers, including the VLAT assigned. Additional firefighters have been ordered and will be responding directly to the fire.

The Pilot Fire started at about 12:10 pm on Sunday, August 7 near the Miller Canyon OHV area off of Highway 138. According to unconfirmed reports, the fire was started by an off-road vehicle

Heavy smoke and ash are falling in the city of Hesperia and the Town of Apple Valley. Residents in the Barstow area are also reporting poor air quality.

The Mojave Desert Air Quality has issued a smoke advisory for the Victor Valley communities due to the Pilot Fire.

If you see or smell smoke or ash in the air where you are, be cautious and use common sense to protect your family’s health. Everyone – especially people with heart or lung disease, older adults and children – should limit time spent outdoors and avoid outdoor exercise when smoke is in the area. Use your air conditioning system and place in recirculation mode, if available. If you have symptoms of lung or heart disease that may be related to exposure to smoke particles, contact your health provider.

Information will be updated as it becomes available.

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